I have to admit that I have not read the article, but I recognize the tone.
Even among members of our historical society (which operates both a restored
Depot and a house museum) there are references to the dichotomy between
those who are interested in "lacy doilies" and those who are interested in
"rusty, dusty things." Because I'm female, it is assumed that I am
fascinated with the doilies. I hear it as another version of the division of
the genders. Dismissing quilting and quilts (historically a women's skill)
can also be read as sexist, since it dismisses women.

Erica
(who is more fascinated by telegraph equipment than doilies)

Erica S. Maniez
Museum Director, Issaquah Historical Society
425/392-3500
[log in to unmask]
www.issaquahhistory.org

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
> Behalf Of Stubbs, Donna L
> Sent: Wednesday, August 28, 2002 11:36 AM
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Re: Wall Street Journal article -- "Museums Cozy Up To Quilts"
>
>
> I would say that the writer (BROOKS BARNES) didn't do much
> homework on the subject of quilts before writing the article.
> Comments like "Aunt Edna's boudoir" are definitely patronizing
> and miss much of the social and historical significance inherent
> in quilts.
>
> As Carolyn pointed out quilts have been used for centuries as
> armor and padding as well as for bedding.  Quilts used fabric
> scraps and old clothes to extend the useful life of cloth.
> Others have noted how quilts exhibit social values, artistic
> expression, etc.  The quilting bees of old also created a social
> and learning atmosphere for young women and fostered a bond
> between generations.
>
> Personally, I would much rather have Aunt Edna's quilt in any
> museum display than some modern art.
>
> Donna Stubbs, RPA                  HDR Engineering, Inc.
> Archaeologist                               6190 Golden Hills Dr.
> (763)591-5442                             Minneapolis, MN  55416
> mailto: [log in to unmask]
>
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